Most people have at least a few items that are extremely important to them. In some cases, the value is sentimental, while in others it’s financial. Either way, these are the items people don’t want to lose or damage in any manner. Wanting to keep these items safe and secure, they try to find different ways to store them. Sometimes, the best option is to store valuables in your own home. However, in some instances, a place away from home could be the answer. Our experts at Kokusai Express Japan made a list of the 4 best methods to store your valuables. Each method can help you keep your valuable items safe, the only question is which one is the right one for you.

Make a list of valuables you need to store

Before thinking about the best methods to store your valuables, you should sort through your belongings and make a list of all valuable pieces that should be stored. That way, you will know exactly what kind of storage space you’ll need, and which size. Organize them and then make a storage plan for the things that you want to put away. Certain smaller items can be stored in your home. Bigger items can be stored in a warehouse if you don’t have enough space in your home for them. Of course, in specific situations, you will probably want to store any type of valuable items you might have in the best warehouse Japan has to offer. For example, if you’re planning a long-term trip and don’t want to pay rent, the best place for your precious possessions is in a storage unit.

Methods to store your valuables in your home

Storing valuables in your home is possible, but it can be tricky. Here are some ways you can do it.

Method 1 – A home vault

This option is almost without a doubt the most secure, but that level of security comes with a price. It would also take up a good amount of space in your home, which is why it’s not the best solution for single items. But, if you have larger collections of valuables and the budget for it, consider storing your items behind the impenetrable doors of a vault.

Method 2 – A Safe

A safe is like a much smaller version of a vault. Essentially, it’s a steel box that’s very hard to crack. They come in different sizes in order to accommodate a wide range of needs. Safes can be free-standing, as well as embedded into walls for added security. Smaller safes that could be stolen to be opened at another location are usually the ones embedded into walls. This is a good option if you want to store important documents, certain electronic devices, jewelry, a couple of smaller paintings or sculptures, and such. For anything bigger than that, you’ll need a bigger space.

Method 3 – A Safe Room

A cheaper and less secure option from a vault and a safe is that of a safe room. This method entails using a spare room, or a closet, as a secure place to store valuables. It would have to be an unused space with a door and a lock. Since it wouldn’t be very hard to break the lock on a standard door, it’s crucial that you use a room that’s less accessible, like the closet in your bedroom, an attic or a basement. Depending on the size of the space you choose to turn into a safe room, you can store different items.

Methods to store your valuables away from home

In certain cases, your best bet is to store your treasured items in a storage facility. If you are moving out of your home or renovating it, the safest place for your valuables is outside of your home. Also, if you’re planning a longer vacation that you’ll spend traveling, you probably don’t want to worry about your prized possessions that would be left unchecked in your house or apartment.

Method 4 – Use a storage facility

Storing valuables in a storage facility comes with numerous advantages.

1. Safety of your possessions. When your valuables are properly packed and safely stored, nothing can happen to them. You can go about your business not having to worry about them.
2. No deadlines. If for whatever reason you need to extend your storage period, it’s always possible without moving and repacking your items.
3. Possibility of insurance. An insured storage unit adds another layer of security to your valuables.
4. You can store many different valuables. When you opt for a storage unit, there will always be enough space for everything you plan on storing. You can even store a car if you need it.

Find a reliable company that offers storage solutions

If you decide to use a storage unit for storing your valuables, the first step is to find a dependable and reputable company that offers storage solutions. Research different companies, compare the prices, and then decide. You have to find a storage unit that checks all of your boxes. Location, size, climate control, consider everything. Kokusai Express Japan warehouses offer different types of storage units and you can always ask our experts for advice if you’re not sure what is the best choice for you.

How to pack fragile valuables for storage

Packing properly is extremely important when it comes to storing your valuable belongings. Do this meticulously and avoid damages. This is important whatever solution you choose between various methods of storing your valuables we mentioned. Start by placing protective cushioning at the bottom of the box. Wrap the valuable item with at least two layers of protective wrapping like bubble wrap or old towels. Place the wrapped item in the box and fill the empty spaces with more padding. Seal the box properly with packing tape. Don’t forget to label the boxes so you know exactly what each box contains.